In his 30-year career, Lil’ John Roberts has played with countless artists and has become one of the most in-demand jazz, R&B, and Pop drummers of his generation. His long list of credits covers a wide range of genres, having played and toured with Janet Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, George Duke, George Benson, Quincy Jones, DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince (Will Smith), Queen Latifah, Michael Jackson, En Vogue, to name just a few. He also has a solo album, titled “The Heartbeat“, under his belt.
With such a diverse resume, when it came time to design John’s signature snare drum, it had to be extremely versatile, with simple yet unique features.
The Lil’ John Roberts Signature Snare Drum is an 8-lug, 1mm-thick steel shell with professional features such as die-cast hoops for sharp attack, Linear-Drive Strainer & Butt Plate, and 20-strand Carbon Steel snare wires for clarity and sensitivity. Its most unique feature is the silicone filled top & bottom bearing edges, which give the drum its distinct sound and feel. Increasing the shell’s strength and controlling excess overtones, the silicone beautifully tempers the steel shell’s naturally bright tone while delivering a broad tuning range.
There are only 150 pieces of this instrument available.
Basic product specification:
- Manufacturer: Tama
- Model No.: JR1455
- Shell: 1mm Steel Shell w/Silicone Filled Bearing Edge
- Size: 14″ x 5.5″
- Lug: MSL35BN
- Hoop: Die-Cast Hoop (8 hole)
- Strainer/Butt: MLS50ABN/ MLS50BBN
- Snare Wire: 20 strands Starclassic Carbon Steel Snare Wires (MS20SN14S)
- Limited to 150 pcs Worldwide